The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), one of the nation’s leading art and design schools, has announced the acquisition of a 56,000-square-foot plot of land. The space, which is currently being used as a parking lot, was purchased as part of the school’s Campus Master Plan, completed last year. The plan helped to identify foreseeable campus needs for the next 10 to 20 years, which includes having a new, purpose-built school building.

SAIC has experienced continued growth due to the reputation of its degree programs, faculty, and alumni. The school has not yet identified when or precisely what it will build on the land, but in the short term, SAIC will benefit from the funds received while it remains a parking lot.

A leader in educating artists, designers, and scholars since 1866, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) offers nationally accredited undergraduate and graduate degrees and post-baccalaureate programs to more than 3,200 students from around the globe. SAIC also provides adults, high school students, and children with the opportunity to flourish in a variety of courses, workshops, certificate programs, and camps through its Continuing Studies program. Located in the heart of Chicago, SAIC has an educational philosophy built upon an interdisciplinary approach to art and design, giving students unparalleled opportunities to develop their creative and critical abilities, while working with renowned faculty who include many of the leading practitioners in their fields. SAIC's resources include the Art Institute of Chicago and its new Modern Wing; numerous special collections and programming venues provide students with exceptional exhibitions, screenings, lectures, and performances. For more information, please visit saic.edu.